Tips for Learning French

 

Study on a regular basis and always include review.
Learning a world language is a skill that requires constant practice both in the classroom and at home. It is a good idea to spend time each night going over that day’s vocabulary. Reviewing each night will help you be prepared for a quiz or a test.

Study out loud.
You double your efficiency when you study out loud. In a first year language class, recite new vocabulary out loud. Also, read the dialogues out loud. Hearing yourself speak will help you remember the vocabulary and grammar.

Listen to the language as much as possible.
Use as many senses as possible to familiarize yourself with the sounds of your new language. Listen to a French news station or television station. You should not expect to understand everything you hear, but listen and try to pick out familiar words.

Study with a friend or a family member.
One of the best ways to study is with someone who has had experience with the language. If there are oral questions you need to drill, have that other person read them to you so that you can answer them orally. Or, have a family member quiz you using your flashcards.

Write out the material you need to learn.
Writing out the material you need to study helps to engrave the information in your mind so that you can retrieve it later.

Make flashcards.  
Many students find that making flashcards is helpful. Put the French on one side and a picture of the word on the other. Or, put the French on one side and the English translation on the other. Quiz yourself at home or on the bus. Or, create digital flashcards Quizlet or through a flashcard app.